2026 FIFA World Cup | Round of 32 | Wednesday July 1
- England 2-1 Democratic Republic of Congo
DR Congo’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup journey ended in heartbreak after the Leopards surrendered an early lead to lose 2-1 to England in the Round of 32 at Atlanta Stadium.
The African side looked set for one of the tournament’s biggest upsets after Brian Cipenga fired them ahead in the seventh minute. Chancel Mbemba’s pass found the forward, who finished calmly to silence the England supporters.
With the lead intact, DR Congo defended with determination. Goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was outstanding, making five crucial saves as the Leopards frustrated England for more than an hour.
England, however, kept pushing. Their breakthrough came in the 75th minute when Anthony Gordon delivered a cross that Harry Kane headed into the net to level the match.
As extra time loomed, England captain Kane struck again. Gordon was once more the provider, and Kane powered home the winner in the 86th minute to complete England’s comeback and send the Three Lions into the Round of 16, where they will face Mexico.
The result ended a remarkable World Cup campaign for DR Congo, but the Leopards leave with plenty to celebrate. They scored their first-ever World Cup goal, earned their first point against Portugal, claimed their first victory with a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan, and reached the knockout stage for the first time in the nation’s history.
